YAMBIO – Western Equatoria State on Wednesday swore in a new crop of government officials, marking an attempt to address longstanding administrative gaps and revive service delivery across several sectors and counties.
The ceremony, held at the State Secretariat in Yambio, brought together newly appointed ministers, advisers, commissioners, and members of independent commissions. The appointments come at a time when parts of the state have experienced governance disruptions, including prolonged vacancies in key local government positions.
Among those sworn in was Vero Usini Nicolas, who assumes office as Commissioner of Nagero County after more than a year without a substantive office holder. Observers say the absence of leadership in some counties has contributed to delays in service provision and weakened local administration.
Also taking oath were Bakiki Simple John as Minister of Finance and Planning, Makuku Daniel Joseph as Minister of Labour and Public Service, and a new State Minister of Information and Communication.
Commissioners for Nzara and Mvolo counties were also sworn in, completing a broader reshuffle aimed at stabilising governance structures at both state and county levels.
In his remarks, Governor Badagbu Daniel Rimbasa acknowledged the leadership gaps and said the new appointments should translate into improved services for residents. He urged officials to focus on public needs rather than political or personal interests, a concern often raised in the management of state institutions.
“The leadership gaps have now been filled, and we expect dedication to service delivery across all levels,” Rimbasa said, while also crediting President Salva Kiir Mayardit for the appointments.
However, beyond official optimism, the effectiveness of the new team will likely be judged on its ability to address persistent challenges facing the state, including limited access to basic services, youth unemployment, and weak institutional coordination.
Speaking on behalf of the newly appointed ministers, Makuku Daniel Joseph outlined priorities such as job creation and skills development, particularly for young people and women. He noted that unemployment continues to expose youth to economic vulnerability and social risks.
Meanwhile, Speaker of the State Legislative Assembly Ann Tuna Richard called for closer cooperation between the executive and legislature, signalling the importance of oversight in ensuring that government commitments translate into measurable outcomes.
The swearing-in signals a reset in Western Equatoria’s governance, but expectations remain high as residents look to the new officials to deliver tangible improvements beyond pledges of unity and accountability.
